Brenda Troxell Murphy, 61, of Springfield, IL and formerly of Ashland, IL, died Monday, April 29, 2024, at HSHS St. John's in Springfield.

She was born Sept. 21, 1962, in Springfield, the daughter of Clarence E. and Helen Pauline (Smith) Troxell. She married Carl Murphy on April 16, 1996, and he preceded her in death in 2013.

She is survived by three children, Carmen Anthony, Samuel Anthony, and Shavonne Anthony; sixteen grandchildren, one great- grandchild (and one on the way); seven brothers and four sisters, Terry Troxell (wife, Sharlene) of Cantrall, David Troxell (wife, Barbara) of Ashland; William Troxell (wife, Maria) of Springfield, Judy Troxell of Victor, WV, Carolyn Kuklinski of Ely, NV, John Troxell of Arenzville, Lee Troxell (wife, Carol) of Virginia, Wayne Troxell of Springfield, Phyllis Shaw of Bath, Veronica Taylor (husband, Alden) of Victor, WV, and Charles "Sonny" Troxell (wife, Ruth) of Springfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two brothers, Clarence Edward, Jr. and Eddie; one sister, Patsy; two grandchildren, Baby Leachman and Heavenly Williams; and one great grandchild, Baby Shelton.

Brenda was a graduate of Ashland High School and later graduated from both Chicago Technical Institute and Job Corps in Springfield. She had been a home care provider for many years and had also driven for Lincoln Cab. She was also a mechanic and could talk about cars for hours. When she wasn't working, she was home reading a book or putting together a puzzle. She loved riding horses, traveling, and driving.

A graveside service will be held 10:30 am Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Bethel Cemetery, west of Pleasant Plains. Memorial gifts are suggested to American Cancer Society. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Ashland is in charge of arrangements.